Moving to Coeur d’Alene Idaho 2026: Lifestyle, Jobs, Housing

If you ever stood on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene as the sun drops behind the mountains, you would know why so many people are choosing to call this corner of Idaho home (hint: it's beautiful!). For years, Coeur d’Alene was a hidden gem: a place for summer cabins, ski weekends, or a quick getaway. But lately? It’s become something more. Families, retirees, and even remote workers are moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in search of balance: small-town charm without giving up opportunities.

Why Are People Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho?

The numbers tell part of the story: the Coeur d’Alene population now tops 55,000 in the city and 188,000 across the metro area (2024 U.S. Census estimates). That’s nearly a 12% jump in just five years, making it one of the fastest growth rates in the Northwest.

Some reasons that CDA residents have left larger cities:

• Parents who swapped long commutes for lakeside evenings and natural beauty

• Retirees downsizing who wanted four true seasons, without the bustle of a larger city

• Young professionals who realized they could take their remote jobs anywhere 

• Outdoor enthusiasts who want closer access to hiking trails and outdoor activities

Walk down Sherman Avenue on a Saturday and you’ll see why people love CDA’s small-town feel: kids with ice cream cones, couples out for date night, neighbors catching up at the farmers market. Even as the area grows, it still has warm, tight-knit community vibes.

Pros and Cons of Living in Coeur d’Alene

Like anywhere, there are pros and cons to moving to CDA.

What people love:

• A backdrop of lake and mountains you never get tired of

• A job market that’s actually adding opportunities, not shrinking

• A downtown that’s walkable and lively without being overwhelming

• Commutes that rarely top 20 minutes

What takes adjusting:

• Housing prices that have crept above Idaho’s average

• True winter weather: snow, ice, and all

• Fewer job options if you’re in niche fields

• CDA is a tourist destination. It’s busy in summer, and that makes parking downtown tricky

Most locals will tell you: if you can handle the winters (and the occasional summer crowd), you’ll find the quality of life well worth it.

Best Neighborhoods in Coeur d’Alene

When people search for the “best neighborhoods in Coeur d’Alene,” what they really want to know is: Where will I fit in? Here’s a snapshot, based on both numbers and what it feels like to live there:

Cost of Living in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

So, is Coeur d’Alene expensive? It depends on where you’re coming from.

• Compared to Seattle or California, the housing market is affordable. A $582,000 median home price (August 2025) feels like a steal.

• Compared to the Idaho average, CDA is definitely on the high side.

• Rents hover around $1,888, according to Zillow Rentals

Daily life can feel less expensive. But shorter commutes mean less money on gas. Weekend fun often involves trails, the lake, or parks - things that don’t cost much at all.\

Jobs in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and the Local Economy

If you’re worried about work, here’s some good news: from March 2024 to March 2025, CDA ranked #2 in the entire country for job growth. That’s almost 5% growth in one year.

• Healthcare is huge here, anchored by Kootenai Health.

• Construction is booming because housing demand is so high.

• Hospitality & tourism thrive year-round.

• Education opportunities stem from strong public schools and North Idaho College.

• And for entrepreneurs? Breweries, boutiques, and even small tech startups are popping up.

And don’t forget Spokane! It is just 30 minutes away with a more diverse job market. Plenty of locals commute across the border while still enjoying CDA’s lifestyle.

Coeur d’Alene vs. Spokane vs. Boise

Wondering how CDA stacks up to nearby cities? Here’s a quick look (according to Bestplaces.net)

Translation:

• Spokane is cheaper and has broader job options, but it’s busier and less scenic.

• Boise is a true city with lots of opportunities, but CDA gives you water, mountains, and a tighter-knit feel.

Outdoor Recreation and Things to Do

This is the part locals love to talk about most. In CDA, recreation isn’t something you schedule — it’s woven into daily life.

• Mornings might start with a walk up Tubbs Hill, and evenings? A lakefront sunset.

• Summers are for paddleboarding, boating, or catching an outdoor concert.

• Fall weekends mean hiking through larch forests as the leaves turn gold.

• Winter? Skiing at Silver Mountain or Schweitzer, both an hour or less away.

And yes, you’ll probably need self-storage for all that gear. Most homes here have garages, but between boats, RVs, skis, and kayaks, those fill up fast.

Schools in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Family Life

If you’re moving with kids, you’ll find plenty of options. A few things to consider:

• The Coeur d’Alene School District has strong public options and charter choices.

• North Idaho College is right in town for higher education.

• Many consider the neighborhoods very safe, with a median age of 40. There's a mix of families, professionals, and retirees.

It’s the kind of place where kids still ride bikes to the park and neighbors know each other.

Weather & Seasons in Coeur d’Alene

CDA gives you four true seasons:

• Summer: Long, warm, perfect for the lake.

• Fall: Crisp days, golden larches, pumpkin festivals.

• Winter: Real snow. If you ski, you’ll love it; if not, you’ll need to learn to embrace it.

• Spring: Rainy but fresh — the season everyone starts gearing up for outdoor adventures again.

Storage and Moving Solutions in Coeur d’Alene

Moving to CDA is exciting, but it may mean juggling a lot: temporary rentals, waiting on construction, or downsizing to a condo near the lake. That’s where Storage Star comes in.

We’re local, with three Coeur d’Alene facilities: on West Appleway Avenue, North Government, and North Fruitland, plus a nearby Hayden location on N. Government Way. No matter where you settle, you’ll have a Storage Star facility just minutes away.

• Flexible storage solutions with month-to-month leases  for short-term or long-term needs

• Vehicle, boat & RV storage so your driveway isn’t crowded

• Secure, convenient locations so you can settle in stress-free

• Security features for peace of mind, including 24/7 video surveillance and gated entry

• Drive-up accessibility to make loading and unloading a breeze

With facilities spread across Coeur d’Alene and Hayden, you won’t have to drive far to find the proper storage fit, whether you’re downsizing near downtown, building a new home in the hills, or just need extra space for Idaho adventures.

FAQs About Living in Coeur d’Alene

Is Coeur d’Alene expensive?
It’s pricier than much of Idaho but still cheaper than West Coast cities like Seattle or Portland.

What are winters like in Coeur d’Alene?
Snowy, cold, and very much a “real” winter, but ski resorts nearby make it a plus for outdoor lovers!

Is Coeur d’Alene a good place to retire?
Yes. Many retirees relocate here for the four seasons, an outdoor lifestyle, and access to healthcare through Kootenai Health.

How far is Coeur d’Alene from Spokane?
About 30 miles (usually a 35–40 minute drive on I-90).

Is Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Right for You?

At the end of the day, Coeur d’Alene is more than statistics or headlines. It’s sunsets over Tubbs Hill, coffee runs downtown, ski days that start an hour from your driveway, and neighbors you’ll actually get to know.

If you’re considering the move, you’re not alone. The Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, population is growing for a reason. And with the proper planning (and maybe a storage unit or two), your transition to Lake City can be as smooth as the lake itself.